We all know the Hollywood signs and symptoms of pregnancy. Basically, if a female between the age of 15 and 50 throws up or feels nauseous, then they are pregnant. Real life is a bit different though and you may be wondering if you need to take an at home pregnancy test or not. Integrity Urgent Care has a few recommendations for when to take one and when to come see our medical team.
How a Test Works
Most over the counter, at home, pregnancy tests measure the amount of human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) in urine. HCG is only present in pregnancy once a fertilized egg has attached to the lining of the uterus. Healthline cites the Cleveland Clinic as stating most tests are 99% effective when taken at the right time and when taken correctly. Different tests have different indicators including regular lines, plus or minus signs, or the words “pregnant.”
Signs You May Need to Take a Test
There are a few signs you may want to wait for before taking a test. We know if you are trying to conceive or if you are worried your birth control methods may not have been as effective as you planned, it can be difficult to wait. A better time to take a test, and to get more accurate results, would be after you have some or most of these signs.
1. A Missed Period – This sign can vary from female to female if your cycles are irregular. Also, you can miss your period if you are stressed, experiencing drastic changes in your diet or exercise plan, or have certain medical conditions. If you are regular, you can test any time after your missed period. Others may need to wait up to a month after their cycle was due.
2. Cramping – This is an extra confusing sign for women who experience cramping during their period anyways. They are located in a similar location and happen at a similar time. Cramping for pregnancy is due to implantation of the fertilized egg or stretching of the uterus as the body grows, later in pregnancy.
